The Years Between Signing and Seeing novel Chapter 179

Richard instructed his driver to wait in the car, then took Suzie’s wrist and led her toward the elevator. “That boy Jamie is stubborn,” he said gently as they walked. “I know he hurt you by demanding this test. When we get up there, I’ll make him apologize to you.”

Suzie’s throat felt tight, and tears welled in her eyes. She took a moment to compose herself before asking in a low voice, “Richard… do you believe me?”

Richard slowed his pace and looked at her earnestly. “Do you remember how we first met? I was having a medical emergency, and no one dared to help. But you did, without any fear of being held responsible. A brave and kind young woman like you would never do something like that.”

He continued, “As for Jamie, his intelligence is all for business. To me, he’s just a dumb kid who hasn’t grown up. This whole mess with the divorce… he was probably influenced by the wrong person and lost his judgment.”

By the time he finished, they had reached the elevator. Once inside, he glanced at Aaron, who had followed them in, and added, “Suzie, don’t you worry about a thing. I’m here. Alright?”

His words were a source of both warmth and sorrow for Suzie. Even Richard believed her, yet Jamie doubted her at every turn. For a moment, she was at a loss for words. She wanted to beg Richard not to push her and Jamie back together. She even wanted to ask him to stop Jamie from taking her children. But she hesitated, a new fear taking root. Even if Jamie didn’t want the children, Richard, standing right in front of her, would almost certainly want his grandchildren.

Suzie fell silent, lowering her head to stare blankly at the elevator floor.

After a few moments, the elevator arrived. The long, empty corridor was bathed in the cold, harsh light of fluorescent bulbs, creating a sterile and oppressive atmosphere.

Before she could process her confusion, Jamie was striding toward them with terrifying speed. He stopped in front of them and commanded coldly, “Aaron, take my grandfather to the room next door to rest.”

Then he turned to Richard. “Grandpa, could you wait for me next door, please? I need to speak with Suzie for a moment.”

Although Richard was filled with doubt and unease, he saw the grim seriousness on his grandson’s face and allowed Aaron to lead him away.

The second they were out of sight, Jamie’s hand shot out, grabbing Suzie and yanking her into the room. The door slammed shut behind them with a thunderous crash that echoed in her ears, making her heart pound in her chest.